Embedded Files
Earth Day
The first Earth Day in 1970 showed concerns over pollution and environmental destruction.
100,000 people in New York City and millions nationwide participated in activities related to Earth Day.
Earth Day's popularity marked the rise of the environmental movement as a significant political issue.
Pictures from Space
The Apollo crew’s photographs of Earth from space in 1968, especially "Earthrise," raised global awareness of the planet's fragility.
These images became iconic symbols of the environmental movement, promoting a new perspective on the shared, finite environment of Earth.
Environmental Activists
By the late 1960s, the environmental movement grew stronger, with the Sierra Club's membership rising from 123,000 in 1960 to 819,000 in 1970.
Mainstream environmental organizations established operations in Washington, D.C., monitoring regulations, lobbying for legislation, and using science to push for new environmental standards.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Created by Nixon in 1970, the EPA was tasked with enforcing federal programs and policies on pollution, radiation, pesticides, and waste.
The agency grew significantly in staff and budget by 1981, reflecting the increasing complexity of its responsibilities.
Clean Air and Water
The federal government took over responsibility for clean air and water in the 1970s.
The Clean Air Act of 1970 regulated air emissions and authorized the EPA to set standards to protect public health from hazardous pollutants.
Other important legislation included the Clean Water Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, and Superfund Act.
Wildlife Protection:
The Endangered Species Act of 1973 aimed to protect critically endangered species and their ecosystems.
This act, referred to as the "Magna Carta of the environmental movement," led to conflicts between preservationists and developers.
Oil Embargo and Fuel Economy:
The 1973 oil embargo by OPEC led to a global oil shortage and long lines at gas stations in the U.S.
Congress responded by reducing speed limits and enacting fuel economy standards, which led to more fuel-efficient cars and fewer harmful emissions.
Antinuclear Movement:
The environmental movement gave rise to antinuclear protests, which peaked in the 1970s and 1980s.
Public concerns over nuclear safety grew after the Three Mile Island accident in Pennsylvania.
The antinuclear movement slowed the construction of new nuclear plants and pushed for stricter safety regulations.
Google Sites
Report abuse